President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed the Federal Government’s directive to withdraw police officers attached to VIPs, VVIPs and ministers, declaring that the policy is final and must be fully implemented without delay.
Speaking at the opening session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House, Abuja, the President warned that any refusal to comply will not be tolerated. He advised officials who require special protection for specific assignments to channel their requests through the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for clearance.
President Tinubu directed the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam; and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensure full enforcement of the order.
According to the President, police personnel are primarily trained to safeguard the lives and property of citizens, especially the vulnerable, and not to serve as personal security for a select class of VIPs.
To fill the gap created by the withdrawal, President Tinubu announced that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, will coordinate the deployment of officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), which he said is properly trained and equipped for VIP protection.
The President added that freeing up police officers from VIP duties would allow for proper mobilisation to address rising security threats across the country, including kidnapping, banditry and terrorism. He noted that exceptions would be made only in cases where exposure to danger is unavoidable.
During the meeting, the President also issued fresh directives on livestock reforms. He instructed Vice President Kashim Shettima to intensify engagement with governors and stakeholders on the implementation of ranching initiatives. He further directed the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar Maiha, to prioritise the rehabilitation of grazing areas and ranching projects in conflict-prone communities.
President Tinubu stressed that ranching reforms are critical to eliminating persistent clashes between herders and farmers and to protecting vulnerable rural populations. He reiterated that land administration remains the constitutional responsibility of state governments.
The President concluded by emphasising the need to stabilise communities affected by conflicts and ensure the economic viability of livestock reforms.
The statement was issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on December 10, 2025.
